Low Carb Chicken Paprikash is a rich and comforting dish that captures the essence of traditional Hungarian cuisine, reimagined to fit a low-carb lifestyle. This delightful recipe features tender chicken simmered in a luscious, paprika-infused sauce that bursts with flavor while keeping carbohydrate counts low. With its creamy texture and aromatic spices, this dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a weeknight meal that feels special without the guilt.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will adore this low carb chicken paprikash recipe for its incredible flavor and straightforward preparation. The combination of sweet and smoked paprika gives the chicken a beautifully rich taste, while the creamy sauce will have you savoring every bite. It’s a great fit for anyone on a low-carb or keto diet, as it’s satisfying and filling without the excess carbs. Plus, it’s a one-pot dish, making cleanup a breeze!
Tips and Tricks
- Use bone-in chicken thighs for more flavor and moisture; they won’t dry out as easily as chicken breasts.
- Make sure to let the chicken brown well before adding the sauce. This will enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
- For an extra layer of flavor, add a splash of white wine before simmering the sauce. Just be mindful of the carb count if you are strictly monitoring.
- Don’t skip on the paprika! Using a good quality sweet and smoked paprika will elevate the taste significantly.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prep this dish ahead of time by marinating the chicken in spices and a bit of yogurt for a few hours or overnight. This not only saves time on the day of cooking but also enhances the flavors. The cooked chicken paprikash can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Recipe Variations
- For a vegetarian option, substitute the chicken with mushrooms or cauliflower, while keeping the same sauce flavors.
- If you’re not a fan of paprika, try using curry powder for a different yet equally delicious flavor profile.
- Switch up the protein by using turkey or even pork for a twist on the classic dish.
How to Serve
Serve your low carb chicken paprikash over a bed of cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles to keep the dish low in carbs while adding texture. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color. A dollop of sour cream on top not only adds creaminess but also balances the spices beautifully.
Pairing Suggestions
Pair this dish with a crisp, chilled white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light-bodied red such as Pinot Noir. For a non-alcoholic option, consider sparkling water with a twist of lemon. As for sides, a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the meal nicely, while a low-carb dessert like almond flour cookies can round off the dining experience.
How to Store
To store leftovers, allow the chicken paprikash to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When reheating, make sure to do so gently on the stovetop to prevent the sauce from separating.
Equipment Needed
You’ll need a large skillet or Dutch oven for this recipe. A wooden spoon for stirring and a sharp knife for chopping will also be helpful. If you don’t have a Dutch oven, any heavy-bottomed pan will suffice.
Dietary Adaptations
To make this dish dairy-free, substitute the sour cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free yogurt alternative. For a gluten-free version, ensure all your spices and chicken broth are certified gluten-free. If you need a nut-free option, this recipe already fits that requirement, as it contains no nuts.
Seasonal Adaptations
In the colder months, consider adding seasonal vegetables like carrots or parsnips for extra nutrition and texture. In the summer, fresh bell peppers can be a vibrant addition. Always adjust your cooking time based on the tenderness of the vegetables you choose.
Recipe FAQs
1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, but be careful not to overcook them, as they can dry out more easily.
2. What can I substitute for the sour cream?
Greek yogurt or a dairy-free yogurt can work well as a substitute.
3. How long does it take to cook the chicken?
Bone-in chicken thighs typically take about 25-30 minutes to cook through.
Low Carb Chicken Paprikash
Low Carb Chicken Paprikash is a rich and comforting dish that captures the essence of traditional Hungarian cuisine, reimagined to fit a low-carb lifestyle.
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in chicken thighs (skin-on)
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons sweet paprika
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
- Place the chicken thighs skin-side down in the skillet and brown for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove from the pan and set aside.
- In the same pan, add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute.
- Stir in both sweet and smoked paprika, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Return the chicken thighs to the pan.
- Cover and reduce heat to low, letting the chicken simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until cooked through.
- Once the chicken is done, remove from heat and stir in the sour cream until fully combined.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 4 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 484Total Fat: 37gSaturated Fat: 12gTrans Fat: 1gUnsaturated Fat: 22gCholesterol: 202mgSodium: 553mgCarbohydrates: 9gFiber: 2gSugar: 4gProtein: 33g
Chickenrecipes.blog, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Making low carb chicken paprikash is not only a delicious way to enjoy a classic dish but also a practical option for those looking to maintain a low-carb lifestyle. With its rich flavors and comforting nature, it’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a gathering, this dish is bound to impress with its homestyle charm and delightful taste. Enjoy the cooking process, and don’t forget to share your delicious results!
